In the summer of 1999, my teenage years found me accepting a summer job, that would become one of my most formative work experiences. Nestled in the picturesque town of Zermatt, I took on a job at a local rental apartment company. My goal was to support the sole employee. As she was pregnant and because of this wasn’t able to work full time. That’s why I call this coaching lessons from Zermatt.
Life, as it often reminds us, has other plans. Only two days into my training, I was thrust into the deep end. I was left to manage the office alone. The baby decided, that it had its own timeline.
That summer I learned two invaluable lessons that have since become cornerstones of my approach to leadership coaching:
- The Power of Listening: Whether it was guests voicing complaints about their rentals or lonely apartment owners seeking conversation. The act of listening—truly listening—proved transformative. By allowing others to fully express themselves without interruption, I learned the subtle art of empathy and understanding. Which are pillars upon which effective leadership coaching is built.
- The Art of Asking the Right Questions: Beyond hearing their words, engaging with visitors through thoughtful questioning helped navigate conversations effectively, providing a sense of validation and calm. This skill, honed in the unlikeliest of settings, underscored the importance of inquiry in leadership coaching, where the right questions can unlock deeper insights and solutions.
Under pressure: A test of leadership
Amid the daily challenges, I found myself “underwater” with tasks. A sensation familiar to many leaders. It was here, that the true value of listening and questioning became clear to me. In leadership coaching, these moments of stress and overwhelm offer opportunities for growth and learning. They test our ability to remain present, to prioritise effectively, and to lead with intention.
Applying summer lessons to coaching
Fast forward to today, as a certified leadership coach, I draw upon these early lessons in every coaching session. Listening deeply to my clients and asking probing questions form the bedrock of my practice. This approach not only aids in identifying the root causes of challenges. But also in crafting bespoke strategies that align with their unique leadership journeys.
Moreover, the experience taught me the importance of fostering an environment where leaders feel heard and understood—a critical aspect of leadership coaching. It’s about creating a space where clients can explore their potential, confront their limitations, and ultimately, find their path to effective leadership.
PS: Madame Richmond and the Unexpected Joys of Miscommunication
A humorous footnote to that summer remains the story of Madame Richmond—a misaddressed apartment owner whose address I had mistaken as being her name.
In conclusion: Leadership coaching and the path forward
Reflecting on that transformative summer, it’s clear how everyday interactions and challenges can shape our approach to leadership and coaching. For those navigating the complexities of leadership, embracing the principles of listening and inquiry can lead to profound personal and professional growth.
Leadership coaching is more than a profession; it’s a journey of continuous learning and adaptation. Whether you’re at the helm of a corporation or steering a small team, the lessons of that summer in Zermatt remain as relevant as ever.
Are you ready to explore how leadership coaching can transform your approach and help you reclaim not just your Sundays but your leadership potential? Let’s embark on this journey together.
Your next move could change everything. Let’s talk or sign up to my newsletter on Substack.
